Metals

Metals are a group of materials that share special traits. Most metals are shiny, strong, and can bend without breaking. Heat and electricity move through them easily. Iron, gold, silver, and copper are all metals. We use them to make tools, cars, coins, and buildings.

Properties of Metals

Most metals are hard and heavy. They can be pulled into long wires or pounded into flat sheets. When you tap them, they make a ringing sound. Metals usually feel cold because heat moves out of your hand into the metal. Almost all metals are solid at room temperature.

Common Metals

Iron is the most used metal in the world. It is made into steel for cars and bridges. Copper is used for wires because electricity flows through it well. Aluminum is light and is used in cans and airplanes. Gold and silver are rare and are used in jewelry and coins.

Fun Facts

• Mercury is the only metal that is a liquid at room temperature.
• Gold is so soft you can scratch it with your fingernail if it is pure.
• About three-fourths of all elements on the periodic table are metals.

Did You Know?

One ounce of gold can be stretched into a wire more than 50 miles long without breaking.